From JoDell Ritchea

May 30, 2012

On behalf of the Special Education Department of Wetzel County Schools, we express our sincerest appreciation to some area businesses that have contributed to the education of several of our students. The Community Based Work Study Program is an opportunity for many students to learn valuable work skills in an actual community business setting, thus utilizing the business as a "classroom." With the generous support and donation of quality time provided by these employers, our students have gained many important skills such as organization, time management, self-confidence, work ethics, and self initiative. These skills have added greatly to their employability in the "real world."

Participating businesses this year were: New Martinsville Health Care Center, Lock Your Heart on Kids, J & T Paving, Wetzel County Hospital, Tractor Supply, Valley Towing, Wetzel County Schools Bus Garage, Center for Children & Families and Board Office, Magnolia High School, The Dog Palace, Choo Choo's, Captain Richards, Salvation Army, A-L Concrete, Valley Diner, Mason's Filling Station in Reader, REM Community Options, and Goodwill Recycle. This year I would also like to thank The Work Force of West Virginia Investment Board for having "Training 4 Our Future" class that allowed our students to receive their own laptops.

Again, we would like to say thank you to these local businesses. If any other business is interested in becoming part of this worthwhile program, please contact the Job Coach for Wetzel County Schools at 304-455-3014.